World Record Falls as Jordan Anthony Runs Blazing 60m

The Randal Tyson Indoor Track Center in Fayetteville witnessed history on Friday as sprinters pushed human limits to new heights.

Khaleb McRae, a professional runner who competed collegiately at Alabama, broke a world record that stood for nearly 21 years. His 400-meter time of 44.52 seconds beat Kerron Clement's 2005 record of 44.57, which was also set in Fayetteville.

"We came here with the expectation I could take down the world record," McRae said after his run. Just a week earlier in practice, he'd clocked 44.72 and knew something special was coming.

Former Arkansas sprinter Jordan Anthony returned to his old stomping grounds and delivered the world's fastest 60-meter time of 2026. His 6.43-second run tied him for ninth fastest in world history, matching performances by Tim Harden and Olympic gold medalist Noah Lyles.

Anthony's time also broke a venue record that had stood since 2003. For the 2025 Bowerman Award winner, now competing professionally, the performance marked a powerful statement after a slow start to his season.

"Nobody cares what you did last year, what you did in college," Anthony reflected. "I've had to remember that doesn't hold any weight when I come to the next level."

Olympic champion Julien Alfred added to the excitement with a world-leading women's 60-meter time of 6.99 seconds. Her performance broke a Tyson Invitational record that had stood since 2012.

Current Arkansas athletes also shined brightly. Jelani Watkins, who plays receiver for the Razorbacks football team, ran a personal best 6.52 in the 60-meter prelims, placing him second on the school's all-time list.

Jerome Campbell finished just 0.01 seconds behind the winner in the 60-meter hurdles championship division, posting 7.48 seconds. His time ranks fifth fastest in the world this year and second in program history.

Why This Inspires

These performances remind us that human potential keeps expanding. McRae's world record fell on the same track where the previous record was set, creating a beautiful full-circle moment for the sport.

Young athletes watching from the stands saw firsthand that dedication and belief can topple barriers that seemed permanent. Anthony's honesty about struggling earlier this season before bouncing back with a world-leading time shows that setbacks are just setups for comebacks.

The meet continues Saturday, with Noah Lyles scheduled to compete in the 200 meters.